About Young Carers

About Young Carers and how Carewise can help

The term Young Carer is simply a way of describing young people up to the age of 18, who care for, or give support to, someone in their family.

The people that Young Carers help look after may be their Mum or Dad, brother or sister or a grandparent. They may need help because they are unwell, disabled, elderly or could have a mental health, drug or alcohol problem. Sometimes Young Carers provide support when the family is going through a traumatic time; for example a death in the family.

A Young Carer may give practical or emotional care. They may help with shopping, cooking and cleaning, help to look after brothers and sisters, give medicine or help with mobility if someone is in a wheelchair or unable to get about. It can also include being a shoulder to cry on or being there to listen to problems and worries. Young Carers are all unique individuals and have different roles. What links them is the care and support they provide for someone else.

As a Young Carer you may:

Miss out on seeing your mates and joining clubs

Often feel tired and stressed

Be having difficulties at school or with homework because of your responsibilities at home

Be bullied at school because of your situation at home

Be confused or angry about the situation at home

Feel alone and unable to talk to anyone about your situation

Carewise can offer:

Support and understanding

Trips and outings to fun places

Fortnightly after school drop in sessions in Barnstaple, Bideford and Ilfracombe

Mentoring Scheme – a volunteer you can talk to and have fun with

A monthly newsletter

Advice and information

A Young Carers Information pack

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Latest News

From 1st May 2018 Carewise is no longer part of the Devon County Council commissioned young carers’ contract. Carewise will continue to support young carers in North Devon and Torridge, under the management of TTVS, by providing respite trips/activities, after school drop-in sessions in Holsworthy, 1:1 support (for young carers who are reluctant to engage with group activities) and whole-family support.

TTVS is delighted to announce it has secured £111,637 from the Children in Need main grant fund for Carewise. The Children in Need grant allows Carewise to deliver a brand new, 3 year project across North Devon and Torridge for disengaged and hidden young carers aged 5-18 years and provide much needed 1:1 support and the provision of group activities that will improve confidence whilst providing information, advice and guidance.